My Top Tips for Getting Your Dissertation Done
Keep your research project modest.
Your dissertation needs to answer a few specific research questions in around pages. While that may seem like a lot of pages to fill, you actually need to be quite focused to stick to that.
don’t expect Your dissertation to be your magnum opus.
While your dissertation can make a real contribution to your field, you should think of it as the starting point for your discussions with senior colleagues. Later you can more fully develop your ideas in genres that are more accessible to other scholars, such as journal articles, book chapters, and book manuscripts.
Keep writing separate from the editing process.
Avoid the temptation to edit while you’re actually writing. Meet your specific writing goal— for that day or week, section or chapter— before worrying about polishing your language and sentence structure. Often it’s helpful to hire an outside editor to look at your writing.
Ask for help when you need it.
Think broadly about individuals who can support you while you’re writing your dissertation. First, reach out to senior scholars on your campus, such as your professors, your committee members, and your advisor. Even if you’re not spending much time on campus, take advantage of those resources virtually. Second, get in touch with junior colleagues in your program and in other programs, as well as alumni. Seek their advice and learn from their experiences. Third, join professional associations in your field in order to meet new mentors and colleagues.
The most important thing to remember is that you’re not alone. Others want you to see you succeed. I’m one of those people!